Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood)

About the course

This Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) prepares graduates to work in early childhood education and care settings such as long day care, kindergartens and preschools. Completed in one year full-time, it covers key theories, principles and practices that support children’s learning and development and includes 60 days of supervised professional experience placements. It also provides a pathway to further postgraduate study in early childhood teaching.

Career outcome

Graduates are prepared for professional roles in early childhood education and care across services such as long day care centres, kindergartens and preschools. The course builds capability in evidence-informed early childhood practice, supporting children’s learning and development, and includes substantial workplace placements to develop job-ready skills. It can also support progression to further qualifications leading to early childhood teaching pathways in the education sector. Preparing graduates for education leadership, instructional design, and advanced teaching specialist roles.

Living Costs in Gold Coast**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 22 - 29	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,564 - 2,068	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,096 - 1,449
Transportation (Daily) A$ 3 - 9	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 234 - 310

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)